How to Convert .AAB to .APK on Windows and macOS

Abhishek AnandAbhishek Anand
1 min read

Table of contents

Introduction

When using Expo’s EAS Build, the output is an .aab (Android App Bundle) instead of an .apk. However, .apk files are often needed for local testing and sharing. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to convert .aab to .apk using simple commands on Windows and macOS.

Prerequisites

  • Java Development Kit (JDK) installed (for bundletool.jar).

  • The .aab file generated from Expo EAS Build.

  • Android SDK (adb) installed for testing.

Step 1: Download bundletool.jar

Download Google's official BundleTool:
👉 Download bundletool.jar

Save it to an accessible location, e.g., Downloads.

Step 2: Generate the APK from .AAB

Run the following command:

java -jar bundletool.jar build-apks --bundle=myapp.aab --output=myapp.apks --mode=universal

This creates a .apks archive containing the .apk file.

Step 3: Extract the APK

Rename the .apks file to .zip and extract it. You’ll find your .apk inside the universal folder.

Alternatively, extract it via command line:

unzip myapp.apks -d myapp_apks

Find the APK at:

myapp_apks/universal.apk

Step 4: Install the APK on Your Device

To install the APK, connect your Android device via USB and run:

adb install myapp_apks/universal.apk

Conclusion

You’ve successfully converted an .aab to an .apk for testing! 🎉

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Written by

Abhishek Anand
Abhishek Anand

Trying to make "Hello World" the new "abc"; Strong in design and integration with intuitive problem-solving skills. Proficient in JAVA, C, PYTHON, JAVASCRIPT, and SQL. Passionate about implementing and launching new projects. Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions. Looking to start the career as an entry-level software engineer with a reputed firm driven by technology. Technology excites me and I am always in awe of the change it drives in the world. Certain skills that I have worked with include Data Structures and Algorithms (Java), Web Development (NodeJs, MongoDB, MySQL), Linux OS (with Go) & Machine Learning (Python). And what I might lack in skills I make up for with my determination to learn. Outside of tech, I am a tea lover, an avid actor and have spent my college days exploring theatre.